Rantepao

Rantepao is one of the most popular destinations of Sulawaya's Tana Toraja region. Rantepao is the cultural centre for the Toraja, a people who are mostly Christians. The best time to visit the city is between March and May, although most people come for the funeral ceremonies, which usually take place during the so-called 'party season' from July to September.

There are several buildings in Rantepao that are built in the style of the Toraja, so-called tongkonan with a typical roof. There is a large Protestant Church in the city. In front of it is a monument dedicated to the introduction of the Bible in Tana Toraja in 1913. In the centre of town is a market. Not far from the market is a monument dedicated to Pong Tiku, whio was a Toraja guerilla fighter trying to overthrow the Dutch colonial government. He was caught and sentenced to death in 1907.

To the west of Rantepao is Gunung Singki, a mountain that offers excellent views over the city. Around Rantepao are numerous interesting Toraja villages, including Kete Ke'su, where you can see several tongkonan houses and a cave with graves. Another traditional village is Kambira. It is known for its old tree that is said to have small children buried in it.

There are numerous hotels and restaurants in Rantepao. The town is in central Sulawaya, some 1490 km northeast of Jakarta.